Dogs are our most beloved animal companions. We often end up sharing our favorite food with them out of love. While there is no harm in sharing a treat or two here and there, it is imperative to understand the difference between the foods that are safe and unsafe to share with your animal friend. In this blog, we will explore the top 10 healthiest and wholesome foods you can safely feed your dog without compromising their health or taste.
Let’s begin!
Does it matter what food you feed your dog?
Dogs and humans metabolize foods differently as their digestive systems work distinctively. So dogs cannot eat all foods made for humans. Moreover, certain human foods including, chocolate, grapes, avocado, etc., are toxic for dogs. Therefore, it is essential to learn about healthy food options that you can serve your dog without worries.
Healthy foods dogs can eat
Here are the top 10 healthy and nutritious foods your dog would love to eat:
- Cooked Lean Meat: Cooked, unseasoned lean meat is an excellent food option for dogs as it is rich in protein for lean muscles and omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat. Plus, it has iron, zinc and B vitamins for immunity and overall health. However, it should be served in limited quantities as it has a high fat content.
- Peanut Butter: Peanut butter is rich in protein, vitamins and other essential nutrients, making it a nutritious and delicious treat for dogs. Make sure you serve unsweetened peanut butter which is free from salt, sugar and artificial sweeteners as they can be harmful to dogs.
- Banana: Bananas are high in potassium, fiber and magnesium that promote good bone health. However, they should be served in moderation because of their high sugar content.
- Blueberries: Blueberries are a low-calorie food making them safe for dogs. They are a great source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
- Watermelon: Watermelons are rich in vitamins C and B6, potassium and fiber. They are a hydrating, low-calorie healthy food option for dogs.
- Sweet Potato: Sweet potatoes are packed with potassium, manganese, fiber, and vitamins C, B5 and B6. They are light on the stomach and promote eye and immune health.
- Green Beans: Green beans are a low-calorie and nutrient-rich food for dogs as they are packed with vitamins A, C, K, potassium, manganese and fiber.
- Cucumber: Cucumbers are a hydrating and low-calorie snack. They contain much-required nutrients including vitamin K and essential minerals.
- Oatmeal: Oatmeal is one of the healthiest food recipes for dogs as it contains vitamin B and Omega-6 fatty acids that help maintain healthy skin and coat.
- Cooked Eggs: Cooked eggs, boiled or scrambled, make a wholesome breakfast for dogs as they are a great source of protein, vitamin D, selenium and riboflavin. However, do not serve raw or seasoned eggs as they can cause bacterial infections.
Factors to consider before choosing the amount of food
Age
The age of a dog plays a crucial role in determining the amount of food you should feed them. For instance, puppies need more energy, meaning they require more protein and calorie-dense foods compared to senior dogs.
Size
The size of a dog also contributes to deciding the feeding amount. Large-sized dogs need more quantity of food to meet their weight requirements compared to smaller dogs.
Activity level
Some breeds are more energetic and active than others. Moreover, dogs that exercise more need more food than the less active dogs.
Body weight
Dogs with different body weights have different food requirements. For example, an overweight dog may need fewer calories than a healthy one.
How much should I feed my dog?
The most wondered question for pet parents is regarding the quantity of food they should feed to their canine companions. Before choosing any type of food, make sure you understand your dog’s food allergies, eating habits, digestive health and eating preferences and then make an informed choice about the feeding quantity. Talk to your vet or pet nutritionist for tailored dietary recommendations.
Feeding guidelines for puppies, adult dogs and senior dogs
Let’s have a look at the amount to be fed to dogs according to their different life stages including puppies, adult dogs and senior dogs:
How much to feed a puppy?
| Puppy Weight (in lbs) | Feeding Amount Per Day (1-3 Months) (Approx.) | Feeding Amount Per Day (3-5 Months) (Approx.) | Feeding Amount Per Day (5-7 Months) (Approx.) | Feeding Amount Per Day (7-12 Months) (Approx.) |
| Up to 5 pounds | ½–1 cup | ½–¾ cup | ¼–½ cup | ¼–½ cup |
| 6–10 pounds | 1–1½ cups | ¾–1 cup | ½–1 cup | ½–¾ cup |
| 11–20 pounds | 1½–2½ cups | 1–1¾ cups | 1–1½ cups | ¾–1¼ cups |
| 21–40 pounds | 2½–4¼ cups | 1¾–3 cups | 1½–2½ cups | 1¼–2¼ cups |
| 41–60 pounds | 4¼–5¾ cups | 3–4 cups | 2½–3½ cups | 2¼–3 cups |
How much to feed an adult dog?
| Adult Dog Weight (in lbs) | Feeding Amount Per Day (Approx.) |
| 3-12 lbs | ½–1¼ cups |
| 13-20 lbs | 1¼–1⅔ cups |
| 21-35 lbs | 1⅔–2⅓ cups |
| 36-50 lbs | 2⅓–3 cups |
| 51-75 lbs | 3–3¾ cups |
| 76-100 lbs | 4–4⅔ cups |
| Above 100 lbs | 4⅔ cups, plus ⅓ cup for each 10 pounds of body weight over 100 pounds |
How much to feed a senior dog?
| Senior Dog Weight (in lbs) | Feeding Amount Per Day |
| 18-23 lbs | 1–1⅓ cups |
| 24-45 lbs | 1⅓–2¼ cups |
| 46-65 lbs | 2⅓–3 cups |
| 66-85 lbs | 3–3⅔ cups |
| 86-105 lbs | 3¾–4⅓ cups |
| 106-125 lbs | 4⅓–4 ¾ cups |
| Above 125 lbs | Add ¼ cup per additional 10 pounds |
Also Read This: 7 Summer Safety Tips for Pets
Bottom Line
Some foods are safe for dogs and some can be toxic for them. Therefore, it is important to feed your dog with foods that are both healthy and tasty. Equip yourself with the information provided in this blog and keep your canine companions’ health maintained and taste buds satisfied.